Our parents warned us to “sleep tight and not let the bedbugs bite.” Experts argue the history and significance of this saying—yes, even in colleges and universities—but the “sleep tight” part is the focus.
Bed bugs have been a problem for ages. Parents didn’t want pests hiding in mattresses—frequently “stuffed with straw, shredded husks of corn, or down feathers”—to bother their children while they slept.
Regardless of when the statement originated, households today have the same desire: to keep everyone safe from bed bug bites. We will discuss the effective prevention and treatment measures used by experts like Bed Bug Exterminator St. Petersburg, FL, to help you protect your family.
Bed Bugs and how can you steer clear
The bed bug feeds on the blood of humans, fowl, bats, and domesticated animals on rare occasions. You certainly do not want them in your home, and prevention is far better than exterminating this biting, blood-sucking insect.
Prevention strategies
First and foremost, strive to keep bed bugs out of your home. They’ll make their way inside unusual ways, such as on boxes and mattresses, luggage and briefcases, and even shoes and clothing. Preventative measures include:
- Before taking used items inside, thoroughly inspect them, especially beds and box springs. Having them properly evaluated by a pest control specialist first may be prudent.
- Protect your mattresses and frames with a high-quality cover. Inspect it regularly for tears or openings.
- Place your belongings inside large plastic bags to keep bed bugs out when traveling.
- Keep your belongings in the suitcases in your garage when you get home. Wash your garments and linens in boiling water, then dry them on high heat in your dryer.
- Clean and inspect your luggage with a flashlight for bed bugs when you bring it in.
- Vacuum regularly and, when finished, place the vacuum bag in a garbage bag. Tie it up and place it in an exterior trash container.
- Remove stacks of papers or magazines, as well as piles of old cartons, from your property. Bed bugs gravitate toward clutter because it provides excellent hiding places.
- Place beds away from walls and keep bedding away from the floor.
- Clothing should be kept off the ground and the mattresses.
- Fill any cracks or crannies where bed bugs might hide.
Following these techniques can make a significant difference in keeping bed bugs at bay. However, because the bugs are little and cunning, it is nearly impossible to failsafe a home in this manner. As part of your bed bug control strategy, inspect for them regularly.
Lastly
When you think the bed bug situation is out of your hands, calling a professional exterminator is always the best choice. The trained technicians will thoroughly inspect, identify every corner, and specify the right solutions to treat the bed bugs. Contact your nearby professional exterminator to learn more about the services.